Average Cost Of Owning A Dog In Singapore

Welcoming a dog into your household is a fulfilling and enjoyable journey, yet it accompanies enduring responsibilities, particularly financial ones. Come along with us as we delve into our comprehensive guide outlining the monthly, yearly, and lifelong financial considerations associated with owning a dog in Singapore.

Initial Cost

Adoption or Purchase: S$70 - S$9,000

The expense can vary significantly, depending on whether you opt for adoption from a rescue center or choose to purchase a purebred dog from a breeder.

In Singapore, adopting a dog typically ranges from S$70 to S$400, depending on the specific shelter. This fee covers essential services like vaccinations, microchipping, a health check-up, and sterilization. Most pet adoption agencies in Singapore have a screening process in place for potential pet owners. This typically includes completing a questionnaire and, in some cases, an interview to assess your suitability and capability to care for your new furry companion before taking them home.

On the other hand, acquiring a dog from a breeder may cost you anywhere from S$800 to S$9,000. Among these options, certain breeds are notably among the most expensive to acquire:

• Corgi: S$7,880 to S$8,500
• Pomeranian: S$800 to S$2,000
• Golden Retriever: S$8,000 to S$9,000
• Japanese Spitz: S$2,500
• Toy Poodle: S$6,000 to S$8,000
• French Bulldog: S$9,500
• Chow Chow: S$13,900
• Bichon Frise: S$12,800
• Shiba Inu: S$7,880 to S$8,500

These figures give you an idea of the cost spectrum when considering the source of your new furry family member.

Dog License: from S$15/year

In Singapore, under the Animals and Birds (Dog Licensing and Control) Rules, owning a dog necessitates obtaining a license. This license is crucial for traceability, especially in the occurrence of disease outbreaks like rabies. In such scenarios, dog owners may be required to present their dogs for examination.

The annual license fee begins at S$15. However, if your dog is sterilized, owners are only required to pay a one-time cost of S$35*. (*This is applicable for the first three dogs.)

Microchipping: from S$50

Equipping your pet with a microchip significantly increases the likelihood of reuniting with them in case they wander off or get lost. This tiny chip stores essential information about your pet, including your address, enabling animal shelters or vet clinics to match the chip's details with their database if your pet is found. The cost of microchipping your puppy typically starts from a reasonable rate of S$50.

Miscellaneous

Dog toys: Prices range from S$2 to over S$35, with an average cost of approximately S$25 per toy.

Dog beds: Prices vary between S$10.50 and S$200, averaging around S$95.

Leashes and collars: On average, the cost is approximately S$92. Leather collars typically range around S$75, while retractable leashes can cost around S$130. Cheaper alternatives priced at S$2 to S$3 are also available.

Beyond these, a new puppy requires essentials such as water and food bowls, an ID tag, a bed with a blanket (optional), a cage, towels, and more. These items are available online on e-commerce platforms like Shopee and Taobao, with prices starting from just a few dollars per item. However, for those keen on pampering their pups with top-notch products, expenses could reach up to S$1000, depending on how much you want to spoil your dog.

Yearly Costs

Food: S$340 - $2,430 (per year)

Ensuring your dog's well-being and contentment involves providing them with specialized food tailored to meet their nutritional needs. Costs can vary significantly depending on factors such as your dog's size, the chosen brand of food, and their lifestyle, which includes their activity level.

Ideally, dogs should have at least two daily meals, with portion sizes determined according to their size. For accurate guidance on the appropriate food quantity for your dog, refer to the instructions provided on the packaging of the chosen food. For professional advice, consulting your veterinarian is highly recommended.

Pet Insurance: S$350 – S$4,000 (per year)

Pet insurance serves as a safety net for unforeseen veterinary expenses, offering reassurance and financial protection. The expenses for insurance can significantly differ based on factors like the age, breed, and size of the dog. Generally, insuring younger dogs without pre-existing health issues or breed-specific health risks tends to be more cost-effective. In contrast, insurance for older dogs or breeds prone to health complications, like flat-faced breeds such as bulldogs, typically incurs higher costs.

Veterinary Care: S$300 - S$500 (per year)

Upon bringing a new puppy home, anticipate spending around S$100 for the initial puppy vaccinations within the first year.

Yearly vaccinations play a vital role in protecting your dog against various common yet serious diseases. Additionally, maintaining your dog's defense against parasites involves the regular administration of flea and worm treatments according to your veterinarian's guidance.

Moreover, regular annual health check-ups for your dog are crucial. These examinations are highly significant as they enable your veterinarian to promptly identify any potential health concerns in your pet and ensure that any worrisome symptoms are addressed without delay.

Grooming: S$274 (per year)

Grooming is a necessary practice to prevent your dog's fur from becoming tangled or matted. Similar to humans, grooming also aids in the removal of dead skin cells, shedding hair, dirt, and dandruff. Grooming costs depend on your dog's breed, size and coat type.

Occasional Costs

Training and Socialization: S$100 - S$900 (initially)

Puppy training classes and ongoing obedience training can be beneficial. Effective training not only helps dogs develop good behavior and manners but also strengthens the bond between dogs and their owners. Socialization, on the other hand, exposes dogs to various people, animals, environments, and situations, ensuring they become well-adjusted and confident members of the community. In the UK, there are numerous dog training classes, puppy socialization groups, and professional trainers available to help owners teach their dogs obedience and appropriate behavior. These classes often focus on basic commands, leash manners, and addressing common behavioral issues. Additionally, dog owners are encouraged to introduce their pets to different experiences to foster positive socialization, such as meeting other dogs at local parks, engaging with people of all ages, and experiencing various environments.

Boarding and Pet Sitting: S$20 - S$40 (per day)

When you're unable to tend to your dog during your work hours, ensuring they receive proper care is essential. While seeking help from a friend or neighbor is often possible, for longer durations or during vacations, professional pet sitters or day care facilities may be necessary. Finding a professional pet sitter or boarding facility can be achieved through recommendations from family and friends or reliable websites such as PetBacker.

Typically, if your dog is left alone for more than four hours regularly, it's recommended to arrange for a dog walker or consider enrolling them in a dog daycare to break up their day.

Each dog's response to being alone varies. Newly introduced dogs or those experiencing separation anxiety may particularly benefit from consistent care provided by a dog daycare facility in your absence.

Transportation: Varies

Consider the cost of transportation to and from the vet, grooming appointments, and pet-related outings.

Emergency Fund: Varies

It's wise to have an emergency fund set aside for unexpected expenses.

Conclusion

Let's now determine the average lifelong expense. Considering a moderate-sized dog with an expected lifespan of around 10-15 years and utilizing conservative estimations for each cost:

Considering all the outlined expenses, the total cost of owning a dog throughout its lifetime, which typically spans between 10 to 15 years, can range from approximately S$20,000 to S$50,000 or even more, contingent upon various factors.

Owning a dog in Singapore is an enriching experience, yet it's crucial to be financially prepared for the ongoing costs involved. By planning for both anticipated and unforeseen expenses, you can ensure a joyful and healthy life for your beloved furry companion. It's important to remember that the love and companionship your dog provides are invaluable, making the investment in their well-being truly worthwhile.